Lead Member for Libraries axed from Tory Cabinet
From the Swindon Advertiser : 7th May [the text, below : ]
The man at the centre of rumours about a challenge to Coun Bluh's leadership has been swiftly axed from the cabinet.
Coun Nick Martin was removed from his position as lead member for property, leisure and recreation a day after the re-election of Coun Bluh as leader of the group.
Coun Martin had been rumoured to be gearing up for a leadership since January, although he has publicly denied this.
Coun Martin said : "I have never considered putting forward for the leadership. This has all been an elaborate fabrication designed to give the leader an excuse to sack me from cabinet."
Responding to Coun Martin's criticisms, Coun Bluh said. "I think Nick is living in a different world to me. Nothing could be further from the truth. He allowed speculation to run on and I think he needs to look at his own actions in all of this.
"I have asked him to step down from his cabinet position as unity and teamwork within the administration are paramount. This does not take anything away from his contribution in recent years to the incredible improvements Swindon Council has made, but all organisations need to constantly change and adapt in order to continue improving.
"I do not want anything to distract me and my colleagues from securing a better future for Swindon while doing all we can to support the local community. I would like to thank Nick for his work as a cabinet member and am sure he will remain a very active member of this council."